2021 INFINITI QX50 service

Doors and engine hood:Check that the doors
and engine hood operate properly. Also en-
sure that all latches lock securely. Lubricate
hinges, latches, latch pins, rollers and links if
necessary. Make sure that the secondary
latch keeps the hood from opening when the
primary latch is released.
When driving in areas using road salt or other
corrosive materials, check lubrication
frequently.
Check that the gas stays or struts properly
and securely hold the hood, trunk, or rear
hatch in a fully open position. If the hood,
trunk, or rear hatch is not held open, have the
gas stays or struts replaced.
Lights*: Clean the headlights on a regular
basis. Make sure that the headlights, stop
lights, tail lights, turn signal lights, and other
lights are all operating properly and installed
securely. Also check headlight aim.
Road wheel nuts (lug nuts)*: When checking
the tires, make sure no wheel nuts are miss-
ing, and check for any loose wheel nuts.
Tighten if necessary.
Tire rotation*: Rotate tires at the specified
interval shown in the maintenance schedule. Tires*:
Check the pressure with a gauge of-
ten and always prior to long distance trips. If
necessary, adjust the pressure in all tires, in-
cluding the spare, to the pressure specified.
Check carefully for damage, cuts or excessive
wear.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
transmitter components: Replace the TPMS
transmitter grommet seal, valve core and cap
when the tires are replaced due to wear or
age.
Wheel alignment and balance: If the vehicle
should pull to either side while driving on a
straight and level road, or if you detect un-
even or abnormal tire wear, there may be a
need for wheel alignment.
If the steering wheel or seat vibrates at nor-
mal highway speeds, wheel balancing may be
needed.
For additional information regarding tires, re-
fer to “Important Tire Safety Information”
(US) or “Tire Safety Information” (Canada) in
the INFINITI Warranty Information Booklet. Windshield:Clean the windshield on a regular
basis. Check the windshield at least every six
months for cracks or other damage. Have a
damaged windshield repaired by a qualified
repair facility. It is recommended that you have
a damaged windshield repaired by an INFINITI
retailer, or an INFINITI Certified Collision Cen-
ter. To locate a collision center in your area,
refer to http://collision.infinitiusa.com.
Windshield wiper blades*: Check for cracks
or wear if they do not wipe properly.
Inside the vehicle
The maintenance items listed here should be
checked on a regular basis, such as when
performing scheduled maintenance, cleaning
the vehicle, etc.
Accelerator pedal: Check the pedal for
smooth operation and make sure the pedal
does not catch or require uneven effort. Keep
the floor mat away from the pedal.
Brake pedal: Check the pedal for smooth op-
eration. If the brake pedal suddenly goes
down further than normal, the pedal feels
spongy or the vehicle seems to take longer to
stop, have your vehicle checked immediately.
It is recommended that you visit an INFINITI
retailer for this service. Keep the floor mat
away from the pedal.
Maintenance and schedules9-3

Brakes:Check that the brakes do not pull the
vehicle to one side when applied.
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) P
(Park) position mechanism: On a fairly steep
hill check that the vehicle is held securely with
the shift lever in the P (Park) position without
applying any brakes.
Parking brake: Check the parking brake op-
eration regularly. The vehicle should be se-
curely held on a fairly steep hill with only the
parking brake applied. If the parking brake
does not securely hold the vehicle, it is recom-
mended that you visit an INFINITI retailer for
service.
Seat belts: Check that all parts of the seat
belt system (for example, buckles, anchors,
adjusters and retractors) operate properly
and smoothly, and are installed securely.
Check the belt webbing for cuts, fraying,
wear or damage.
Seats: Check seat position controls such as
seat adjusters, seatback recliner, etc., to en-
sure they operate smoothly and all latches
lock securely in every position. Check that the
head restraints/headrests move up and
down smoothly and the locks (if so equipped)
hold securely in all latched positions. Steering wheel:
Check for changes in the
steering system, such as excessive free play,
hard steering or strange noises.
Warning lights and chimes: Make sure all
warning lights and chimes are operating
properly.
Windshield defroster: Check that the air
comes out of the defroster outlets properly
and in sufficient quantity when operating the
heater or air conditioner.
Windshield wiper and washer*: Check that
the wipers and washer operate properly and
that the wipers do not streak.
Under the hood and vehicle
The maintenance items listed here should be
checked periodically (for example, each time
you check the engine oil or refuel).
Battery (for maintenance free batteries)*:
This vehicle is equipped with a sealed main-
tenance free battery. It is recommended that
you visit an INFINITI retailer for this service.
NOTE:
Care should be taken to avoid situations
that can lead to potential battery discharge
and potential no-start conditions such as:
1. Installation or extended use of electronic
accessories that consume battery power
when the engine is not running (Phone
chargers, GPS, DVD players, etc.).
2. Vehicle is not driven regularly and/or
only driven short distances.
In these cases, the battery may need to be
charged to maintain battery health.
Brake fluid level*: Make sure that the brake
fluid level is between the MAX and MIN lines
on the reservoir.
Engine coolant level*: Check the coolant level
when the engine is cold.
Engine drive belt*: Make sure the drive belt is
not frayed, worn, cracked or oily.
Engine oil level*: Check the level after parking
the vehicle on a level spot and turning off the
engine. Wait more than 15 minutes for the oil
to drain back into the oil pan.
9-4Maintenance and schedules

Exhaust system:Make sure there are no
loose supports, cracks or holes. If the sound
of the exhaust seems unusual or there is a
smell of exhaust fumes, immediately have the
exhaust system inspected. It is recommended
that you visit an INFINITI retailer for this
service. For additional information, see “Ex-
haust gas (carbon monoxide)” (P. 5-4).
Fluid leaks: Check under the vehicle for fuel,
oil, water or other fluid leaks after the vehicle
has been parked for a while. Water dripping
from the air conditioner after use is normal. If
you should notice any leaks or if fuel fumes
are evident, check for the cause and have it
corrected immediately.
Radiator and hoses: Check the front of the
radiator and clean off any dirt, insects, leaves,
etc., that may have accumulated. Make sure
the hoses have no cracks, deformation, rot or
loose connections. Underbody:
The underbody is frequently ex-
posed to corrosive substances such as those
used on icy roads or to control dust. It is very
important to remove these substances, oth-
erwise rust may form on the floor pan, frame,
fuel lines and around the exhaust system. At
the end of winter, the underbody should be
thoroughly flushed with plain water, being
careful to clean those areas where mud and
dirt may accumulate. For additional informa-
tion, see “Cleaning exterior” (P. 7-2).
Windshield-washer fluid*: Check that there
is adequate fluid in the reservoir. The following descriptions are provided to
give you a better understanding of the sched-
uled maintenance items that should be regu-
larly checked or replaced. The maintenance
schedule indicates at which mileage/time in-
tervals each item requires service.
In addition to scheduled maintenance, your
vehicle requires that some items be checked
during normal day-to-day operation. For ad-
ditional information, see “General mainte-
nance” (P. 9-2).
Items marked with
“*”are recommended by
INFINITI for reliable vehicle operation. You
are not required to perform maintenance on
these items in order to maintain the warran-
ties which come with your INFINITI. Other
maintenance items and intervals are required.
When applicable, additional information can
be found in the “Do-it-yourself” section of
this manual.
EXPLANATION OF SCHEDULED
MAINTENANCE ITEMS
Maintenance and schedules9-5

NOTE:
INFINITI does not advocate the use of non-
OEM approved aftermarket flushing sys-
tems and strongly advises against perform-
ing these services on an INFINITI product.
Many of the aftermarket flushing systems
use non-OEM approved chemicals or sol-
vents, the use of which has not been vali-
dated by INFINITI.
For recommended fuel, lubricants, fluids,
grease, and refrigerant, see “Recommended
fluids/lubricants and capacities” (P. 10-2).
EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM
MAINTENANCE:
Drive belt*:Check engine drive belt for wear,
fraying or cracking and for proper tension.
Replace any damaged drive belt.
Engine air filter: Replace at specified inter-
vals. When driving for prolonged periods in
dusty conditions, check/replace the filter
more frequently.
Engine coolant*: Replace coolant at the
specified interval. When adding or replacing
coolant, be sure to use only Genuine NISSAN
Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (blue) or
equivalent with the proper mixture. (For ad- ditional information on the proper mixture for
your area, see “Engine cooling system”
(P. 8-4).)
NOTE: Mixing any other type of coolant or
the use of non-distilled water may reduce
the recommended service interval of the
coolant.
Engine oil and oil filter:
Replace engine oil
and oil filter at the specified intervals. For
recommended oil grade and viscosity, see
“Recommended fluids/lubricants and capaci-
ties” (P. 10-2).
Engine valve clearance*: Inspect only if valve
noise increases. Adjust valve clearance if
necessary.
Evaporative emissions control vapor lines*:
Check vapor lines for leaks or looseness.
Tighten connections or replace parts as
necessary.
Fuel lines*: Check the fuel hoses, piping and
connections for leaks, looseness, or deterio-
ration. Tighten connections or replace parts
as necessary.
Spark plugs: Replace at specified intervals.
Install new plugs of the same type as origi-
nally equipped.
CHASSIS AND BODY
MAINTENANCE:
Brake lines and cables: Visually inspect for
proper installation. Check for chafing, cracks,
deterioration, and signs of leaking. Replace
any deteriorated or damaged parts
immediately.
Brake pads and rotors: Check for wear, de-
terioration and fluid leaks. Replace any dete-
riorated or damaged parts immediately.
Exhaust system: Visually inspect the exhaust
pipes, muffler and hangers for leaks, cracks,
deterioration, and damage. Tighten connec-
tions or replace parts as necessary.
In-cabin microfilter: Replace at specified in-
tervals. When driving for prolonged periods in
dusty conditions, replace the filter more
frequently.
Propeller shaft(s): Check for damage, loose-
ness, and grease leakage. (AWD)
Steering gear and linkage, axle and suspen-
sion parts, drive shaft boots: Check for dam-
age, looseness, and leakage of oil or grease.
Under severe driving conditions, inspect more
frequently.
9-6Maintenance and schedules

Tire rotation:Rotate tires at the specified
interval shown in the maintenance schedule.
When rotating tires, check for damage and
uneven wear. Replace if necessary.
Transmission fluid/oil, differential oil and
transfer case oil: Visually inspect for signs of
leakage at specified intervals.
Replace at specified intervals. To help ensure smooth, safe and economical
driving, INFINITI provides two maintenance
schedules that may be used, depending upon
the conditions in which you usually drive.
These schedules contain both distance and
time intervals, up to 90,000 miles (144,000
km)/144 months. For most people, the
odometer reading will indicate when service
is needed. However, if you drive very little,
your vehicle should be serviced at the regular
time intervals shown in the schedule.
After 90,000 miles (144,000 km)/144
months, continue maintenance at the same
mileage/time intervals.
ADDITIONAL MAINTENANCE
ITEMS FOR SEVERE OPERATING
CONDITIONS
Additional maintenance items for severe op-
erating conditions
should be performed on
vehicles that are driven under especially de-
manding conditions. Additional maintenance
items should be performed if you primarily
operate your vehicle under the following
conditions:
• Repeated short trips of less than 5 miles (8 km). • Repeated short trips of less than 10 miles
(16 km) with outside temperatures remain-
ing below freezing.
• Operating in hot weather in stop-and-go “rush hour” traffic.
• Extensive idling and/or low speed driving for long distances, such as police, taxi or
door-to-door delivery use.
• Driving in dusty conditions.
• Driving on rough, muddy or salt spread roads.
• Towing a trailer, using a camper or using a car-top carrier.
If your vehicle is mainly operated under the
severe conditions, follow the severe mainte-
nance intervals shown in the maintenance
schedule.
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES
Maintenance and schedules9-7

10 Technical and consumer information
Recommended fluids/lubricants and capacities . . 10-2Fuel recommendation ....................... 10-3
Engine oil and oil filter recommendations .....10-6
Air conditioner system refrigerant and oil
recommendations ........................... 10-7
Specifications .................................. 10-8
Engine ...................................... 10-8
Wheels and tires ............................ 10-9
Dimensions and weights ....................10-9
When traveling or registering in another
country ....................................... 10-10
Vehicle identification .......................... 10-10
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) plate . . . 10-10
Vehicle identification number
(chassis number) ........................... 10-10
Engine serial number ....................... 10-11
F.M.V.S.S./C.M.V.S.S. certification label .....10-11
Emission control information label ..........10-11
Tire and Loading Information label ..........10-12
Air conditioner specification label ...........10-12
Installing front license plate ....................10-13
Vehicle loading information ....................10-15Terms
..................................... 10-15
Vehicle load capacity ....................... 10-16
Securing the load .......................... 10-17
Loading tips ............................... 10-18
Measurement of weights ...................10-18
Towing a trailer ............................... 10-19
Maximum load limits ....................... 10-20
Towing load/specification ..................10-23
Towing safety ............................. 10-23
Flat towing for all–wheel drive vehicle
(if so equipped) ............................ 10-28
Flat towing for front wheel drive vehicle
(if so equipped) ............................ 10-29
Uniform tire quality grading ...................10-29
Emission control system warranty .............10-30
Reporting safety defects ......................10-31
Readiness for Inspection/Maintenance (I/M)
test .......................................... 10-32
Event Data Recorders (EDR) ..................
10-32
Owner's

Manual/Service Manual order
information ................................... 10-33

•Do not use fuel that contains the octane
booster methylcyclopentadienyl manga-
nese tricarbonyl (MMT). Using fuel con-
taining MMT may adversely affect ve-
hicle performance and vehicle emissions.
Not all fuel dispensers are labeled to in-
dicate MMT content, so you may have to
consult your gasoline retailer for more
details. Note that Federal and California
laws prohibit the use of MMT in refor-
mulated gasoline.
• U.S. government regulations require
ethanol dispensing pumps to be identi-
fied by a small, square, orange and black
label with the common abbreviation or
the appropriate percentage for that
region.
Gasoline specifications
INFINITI recommends using gasoline that
meets the World-Wide Fuel Charter
(WWFC) specifications where it is available.
Many of the automobile manufacturers de-
veloped this specification to improve emis-
sion control system and vehicle performance.
Ask your service station manager if the gaso-
line meets the WWFC specifications.
Reformulated gasoline
Some fuel suppliers are now producing refor-
mulated gasolines. These gasolines are spe-
cially designed to reduce vehicle emissions.
INFINITI supports efforts towards cleaner air
and suggests that you use reformulated
gasoline when available.
Gasoline containing oxygenates
Some fuel suppliers sell gasoline containing
oxygenates such as ethanol, MTBE and
methanol with or without advertising their
presence. INFINITI does not recommend the
use of fuels of which the oxygenate content
and the fuel compatibility for your INFINITI
cannot be readily determined. If in doubt, ask
your service station manager.
If you use oxygenate-blend gasoline, please
take the following precautions as the usage
of such fuels may cause vehicle performance
problems and/or fuel system damage.
• The fuel should be unleaded and have an
octane rating no lower than that recom-
mended for unleaded gasoline.
• If an oxygenate-blend other than metha-
nol blend is used, it should contain no more
than 15% oxygenate. •
If a methanol blend is used, it should con-
tain no more than 5% methanol (methyl
alcohol, wood alcohol). It should also con-
tain a suitable amount of appropriate co-
solvents and corrosion inhibitors. If not
properly formulated with appropriate co-
solvents and corrosion inhibitors, such
methanol blends may cause fuel system
damage and/or vehicle performance prob-
lems. At this time, sufficient data is not
available to ensure that all methanol
blends are suitable for use in INFINITI
vehicles.
If any driveability problems such as engine
stalling and difficult hot-starting are experi-
enced after using oxygenate-blend fuels, im-
mediately change to a non-oxygenate fuel or
a fuel with a low blend of MTBE.
Take care not to spill gasoline during refuel-
ing. Gasoline containing oxygenates can
cause paint damage.
E–15 fuel
E-15 fuel is a mixture of approximately 15%
fuel ethanol and 85% unleaded gasoline.
E-15 can only be used in vehicles designed to
run on E-15 fuel. U.S. government regula-
tions require fuel ethanol dispensing pumps
to be identified with small, square, orange
10-4Technical and consumer information

CAUTION
Damage to engine caused by improper
maintenance or use of incorrect oil and fil-
ter quality and/or viscosity is not covered
by the INFINITI New Vehicle Limited
Warranty.
Your engine was filled with a high-quality
engine oil when it was built. You do not have
to change the oil before the first recom-
mended change interval. Oil and filter change
intervals depend upon how you use your
vehicle.
Operation under the following conditions
may require more frequent oil and filter
changes:
• repeated short distance driving at cold out- side temperatures
• driving in dusty conditions
• extensive idling
• towing a trailer
• stop and go commuting
For additional information on maintenance
schedules, see “Maintenance and schedules”
(P. 9-2).AIR CONDITIONER SYSTEM
REFRIGERANT AND OIL
RECOMMENDATIONS
The air conditioner system in your INFINITI
vehicle must be charged with the refrigerant
HFO-1234yf (R-1234yf) and the oil, Genu-
ine NISSAN A/C System Oil Type ND-OIL12
or the exact equivalents.
CAUTION
The use of any other refrigerant or oil will
cause severe damage to the air condition-
ing system and will require the replacement
of all air conditioner system components.
The refrigerant HFO-1234yf (R-1234yf) in
your INFINITI vehicle does not harm the
earth's ozone layer. Although this refrigerant
does not affect the earth's atmosphere, cer-
tain government regulations require the re-
covery and recycling of any refrigerant during
automotive air conditioner system service. An
INFINITI retailer has the trained technicians
and equipment needed to recover and recycle
your air conditioner system refrigerant.
It is recommended that you visit an INFINITI
retailer when servicing your air conditioner
system.
Technical and consumer information10-7